Breast reduction (also known as reduction mammaplasty) is the
process of reducing the breast size as well as lifting and reshaping
the breasts. Not only does it achieve a more aesthetic and proportionate
look, but more importantly it frequently relieves back, neck &
shoulder pain by reducing stress on these areas.
Who can undergo breast reduction?
Breast reduction surgery is ideally suited for women that have
matured and their breasts have fully developed. Women that find
their breasts too large, or are experiencing a physical discomfort
due to the size of their breasts can consider breast reduction.
Breast reduction is usually not recommended for teenagers and
younger women, as breast size does vary with weight changes and
it is important to let the breasts fully develop before attempting
breast reduction. Women that are experiencing symptoms including
shoulder and neck pain, back pain, shoulder grooving, shoulder
strain, poor posture, or inability to compete in competitive sports
due to the size of their breasts, should consider breast reduction.
Does insurance cover breast reduction?
Before considering surgery, women should try conservative measures
to help alleviate their symptoms. This would include being properly
fitted for a bra, using wide straps on the bra, taking over the
counter pain medications for a trial period of 3 or more months,
losing weight if needed, and doing back strengthening exercises.
If a woman continues to have significant problems due to the size
of her breasts, the surgery to correct this may be covered by
insurance. The specific requirements vary between each insurance
company, and any breast reduction surgery is pre-authorized with
the insurance company.
How is a breast reduction surgery performed?
There are several different methods that can be used, and which
one is chosen will depend on the surgeon and the patient. A breast
reduction will make the breast smaller, lift it and reshape it.
There is usually a circular scar around the areola (the dark skin
around the nipple), a scar coming down from the nipple, and a
scar in the breast crease, creating an anchor shape.
What can be expected after breast reduction surgery?
You will be wrapped in a large dressing and probably have two
drain tubes coming out. You will return to the office in 5-7 days
at which time your dressings & drains will be removed, and
you will be placed in a bra. Expect to be bruised and a little
sore. No muscles are cut during a breast reduction, so pain is
usually considered mild to moderate.
How soon can I return to work and my usual activities?
You can be up and walking the day after surgery, in fact, this
is encouraged. You should not do any heavy lifting, straining
or strenuous activity until cleared by Dr Wray. Most patients
can start vigorous exercising in about 4-6 weeks. Most patients
can be back to work in 1-2 weeks, but it will depend on the type
of work that is done.
Is breast feeding possible after breast reduction surgery?
In order to make the breast smaller, tissue is removed that will
cut across the milk ducts, making the ability to breast feed less
likely. The nipple sensation or projection could be altered, which
may also affect the patients’ ability to breast feed. It
is recommended that if you wish to breast feed your children you
wait to have your reduction until after you are finished with
childbearing. It is certainly OK to try and breast feed after
a reduction as long as you understand that this may not be possible.
Do I get to pick the size I will be?
Dr Wray cannot guarantee a specific cup size, but will discuss
with you what your goals are and what can realistically be obtained.
What complications can arise after breast reduction surgery?
Bleeding and infection can complicate any surgery, and only occurs
significantly about 1% of the time with breast reduction surgery.
Poor wound healing can be an issue, since the scars are on the
underside of the breast and the weight of the breast is on them.
Smoking significantly increases wound healing problems, since
the nicotine decreases blood flow in the skin. Other medical problems
such as diabetes or obesity can also lead to wound healing issues.
Scarring can be significant, and is one of the tradeoffs of having
a breast reduction. Once all the swelling and bruising has settled,
the breasts may be uneven in size or nipple height. The nipple
sensation could be altered or lost, and this may be permanent.
For more information about Breast Reduction Virginia...
The professionals at The Center for Plastic Surgery and MediSpa
are always available to answer any questions regarding our breast
reduction procedures. Please give us a call at 1-540-444-4343
to schedule a consultation. You can also schedule a consultation
online by clicking here: Schedule
a Consultation Online - Breast Reduction
Breast Reduction Before and After Photos
To Learn more about Virginia Breast Reduction,
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